Jessica James
Minneapolis,MN
Summary
Visionary housing, finance, and community development leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing equitable homeownership, lending, and wealth-building. Recognized for building trust-based partnerships between lenders, developers, and communities to expand access to affordable housing and long-term stability. Brings a deep understanding of lending, real estate, and nonprofit management, grounded in racial equity and community-centered leadership. Minnesota-licensed real estate professional committed to bridging finance and development to create lasting community impact.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Real Estate Agent
Keller Williams Integrity Edina
11.2025 - Current
- Represent buyers and sellers in residential real estate transactions with a focus on equitable access to homeownership.
- Leverage community relationships and financial expertise to guide clients through financing, property selection, and closing processes.
- Collaborate with lenders and housing partners to promote sustainable, informed ownership outcomes.
- Built strong relationships with clients through effective communication, fostering trust and repeat business opportunities.
Managing Partner
Averyheart Protective Services LLC
01.2023 - Current
- Provide executive oversight for operations, financial management, and workforce planning in a growing family-owned enterprise.
- Lead strategic planning and partnerships supporting employment and community safety initiatives.
- Manage contracts, budgeting, and staff training to promote operational sustainability and professionalism.
Community Lending Program Manager
Land Bank Twin Cities, Inc.
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Directed community-based lending programs supporting nonprofit and mission-driven developers focused on affordable housing and land access.
- Structured acquisition and redevelopment loans advancing long-term affordability and community ownership.
- Partnered with lenders, municipalities, and philanthropic funders to grow equitable development pipelines and innovative financing models.
AVP, Residential Loan Advisor (CRA)
Associated Bank
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Originated CRA-qualified residential mortgages for low- to moderate-income and BIPOC households.
- Expanded affordable lending opportunities through partnerships with realtors, counseling agencies, and community organizations.
- Supported community revitalization through targeted mortgage products and first-time homebuyer education.
Commercial Loan Administration Director
Shared Capital Cooperative
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Managed a national portfolio of cooperative and community development loans supporting affordable housing and small business expansion.
- Strengthened compliance and lending processes aligned with cooperative and racial equity principles.
- Collaborated with member-owners, funders, and boards to ensure sound financial stewardship and mission alignment.
Consumer Loan Underwriter II
OneMain Financial Services
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Partnered with branch leadership to identify lending opportunities that supported responsible credit access for underserved borrowers.
- Evaluated creditworthiness of applicants to determine loan eligibility and risk levels.
- Analyzed financial documentation to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and company policies.
- Mentored junior underwriters on best practices for risk assessment and decision-making processes.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
National American University
St. Paul, MNSkills
- Strategic & Inclusive Leadership
- Affordable & Equitable Housing Development
- Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Cross-Sector Partnerships
- Fundraising & Resource Development
- Program & Portfolio Management
- Board Collaboration
- Team Development
- Racial Equity & Culturally Responsive Practices
- Strong organizational skills
Accomplishments
- Strategic Growth & Community Impact: Led lending and acquisition programs that expanded affordable housing pipelines and leveraged public–private investment.
- Community Engagement: Visible and trusted leader in housing networks, recognized for advancing collaborative, equity-centered solutions.
- Financial & Operational Management: Experienced in budgeting, financial oversight, and connecting mission-driven impact to sustainable organizational outcomes.
- Collaborative Leadership: Builds cohesive, transparent teams and board relationships grounded in accountability, inclusion, and shared purpose.
Affiliations
- Board Member & President-Elect, NAREB Twin Cities | 2022 – Present
- Board Member & Finance Committee, City of Lakes Community Land Trust | 2019 – Present
- Board Member, Rondo Community Land Trust | 2024 – Present
- DEI Co-Chair, Minnesota Mortgage Association | 2023 – 2025
- Participating Organizer, Twin Cities Diversity Homeownership Fair | 2022 – 2025
Certification
- Minnesota Real Estate License – Active
- Development Training and Assistance Program (DTAP), Emerging Developer Track – 2024
- Continuing Education – Leadership, Racial Equity, and Nonprofit Financial Management
Timeline
Real Estate Agent
Keller Williams Integrity Edina
11.2025 - Current
Community Lending Program Manager
Land Bank Twin Cities, Inc.
01.2024 - 01.2025
Managing Partner
Averyheart Protective Services LLC
01.2023 - Current
AVP, Residential Loan Advisor (CRA)
Associated Bank
01.2021 - 01.2024
Commercial Loan Administration Director
Shared Capital Cooperative
01.2018 - 01.2021
Consumer Loan Underwriter II
OneMain Financial Services
01.2015 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
National American University